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ICAEW Manchester celebrates new accountancy talent

October 6, 2017

Over 40 young chartered accountants from Greater Manchester celebrated becoming fully qualified at a special ceremony this week hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales (ICAEW).

The initiative is designed to mark exam success, welcome new chartered accountants into membership and prepare them for the next steps in their career.

The 40 trainee accountancy professionals met at Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester for the ceremony last weekend with family and friends.

ICAEW President Nick Parker presented certificates and prizes to outstanding candidates and signposted new members to support, opportunities and benefits of a relationship with the ICAEW in their local area.

Anthony Woodings of Stockport’s Hurst Accountants and President of the ICAEW Chartered Accountants Manchester, said:

“We know that success in getting this world-renowned professional qualification is often celebrated within firms or companies where students have trained and qualified.

“But we also wanted to acknowledge their achievements and show how much we appreciate the huge effort that goes into successfully balancing work and study.

“And also to recognise the support that comes from families and friends behind the scenes and allow them to share in the moment.”

One of those being recognised on the day was Simone Masterson, of BDO in Manchester, who joined the profession from school and was the youngest ever chair of the Student Council for the ICAEW.

Elected by her peers Simone is tipped to be a leading light for a new generation of accountants, already part of forums making improvements to qualifications and understanding challenges facing businesses in the future.

She said of the membership event:

“It is great to see the ICAEW – both nationally and locally – marking the moment of full membership for us and our families and to start our career journey with their support.”

The Manchester ‘district society’ is the local arm of the ICAEW and provides a variety of services for young chartered accountants. These range from technical updates, to soft skills development and career masterclasses as well as pan-professional social and networking events. Newly qualified members can also join MYCAG or the Manchester Young Chartered Accountants Group chaired by Charlene Nunn.

Anthony Woodings added that the ACA qualification was a passport to unlimited opportunities in the profession both here and overseas:

“Previous young ACAs have gone on to enjoy a variety of careers, choosing work abroad, joining FTSE 100 companies, taking on non-financial and/or consulting roles for leading firms. We wish everyone a very successful onward journey.”